The
holy Mailady Virgin Motherís Church in Jaffna, a sacred shrine that
boasts a history of more than 300 years, but has remained abandoned
and dilapidated for over 12 years due to terrorist threats commenced
its daily holy masses last Saturday (20) after Army troops with
the support of devotees renovated the place fully.

Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, Commander Security Forces,
Jaffna after taking the initiative for its revival, harnessed civil
support in the area for the project and completed repairs and renovation
within a few weeks. Paints and raw materials were provided by donors
and the Army.

This
legendary Christian Church, built by Portuguese some 300 years back
in Mailady area, was later vandalized by the Dutch who invaded the
country for economic and religious interests. History also says
the Dutch hated Christians at that time and tried to propagate Catholic
faith among northerners, instead.

Reinvigorated
religious sentiments in Jaffna had however reached authorities requesting
for revival of the sacred place which was a very popular holy shrine
of worship during and after the British rule.

The
Church saw its renovation under the supervision of Brigadier B.C.J.A.F.
Rodrigo, Brigadier General Staff Headquarters Security Forces (Jaffna)
as hundreds of soldiers in Units and Brigades in the High Security
Zone enthusiastically joined hands together with Christian devotees
in the area.

After
rehabilitation of the Church, the inaugural feast was conducted
on 20th March 2010 by Rev. Father Jayadin, Deputy Diocese in the
peninsula and several other Christian clergy. Brigadier B.C.J.A.F.
Rodrigo, Brigadier General Staff, Headquarters Security Forces (Jaffna)
represented the Jaffna Commander at the inaugural feast and re-opening
of the Church.

A
record 2000 devotees amidst rhythms of Church bells attended the
inaugural feast and prayers which went on until afternoon. All the
devotees were provided meals and refreshments by philanthropists
in the area last Saturday (20). The devotees and the Christian priests
attending the feast praised the Army for the assistance provided
to them.